A pot of money worth $9.2 million will help Saint John build hundreds of urgently needed housing units, a city official says. 

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A homeless man accused of robbing a woman last month was deemed fit to stand trial after a short psychiatric assessment this week, but a court heard of ongoing concerns about his mental state.

Abas Suleiman Mohamed, 33, of no fixed address, appeared in Fredericton provincial court remotely from the Saint John Regional Correctional Centre on Wednesday for a fitness hearing.

He faces charges of robbing Elizabeth Namit, of a pair of JBL earbuds, breaching a police undertaking requiring him to stay away from the Atlantic Superstore on Smythe Street, and trespassing on the premises of Kings Place in downtown Fredericton, all on Feb. 14.

A judge ordered a five-day psychiatric assessment last week to determine if Mohamed was fit to stand trial after he was incoherent during his court appearance.

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A Fredericton woman is facing a serious charge alleging she robbed someone just outside the capital last summer.

Kaylee Nason, 30, of St. Mary’s Street, made her initial appearance in Fredericton provincial court Wednesday to answer to an indictable charge.

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Customers of a troubled online service that helps people learn about their ancestry and offers insights into their health could now be vulnerable, a Fredericton cybersecurity expert says.

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Police turned to the public Thursday for help in identifying a man in his mid-40s suspected of stealing cartfulls of items from the same business twice earlier this month.

The Oromocto detachment of the RCMP issued a news release Thursday morning accompanied by a photo of a suspect.

It said two thefts were perpetrated at the same business on Onondaga Street in the model town, first on March 2 and again the next day.

“During both incidents, the same individual entered the business, filled a cart with a significant amount of goods and left the business without attempting to pay,” the release said.

The Mounties released a still image of the suspect from security footage.

“The individual is described as being a man, in his mid-40s, approximately 5’10” (178 centimetres) tall, with a large build,” the release said.

“During one of the thefts, he was wearing a white hoodie, a green and brown winter jacket, and a black baseball cap.”

Anyone who recognizes the suspect or who might have other information that could aid in the effort to identify him is urged to call the Oromocto RCMP at 506-357-4300.

Those wishing to provide information anonymously can do so through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the secure P3 Mobile App or visiting Secure Web Tips online at www.crimenb.ca.

The Fredericton Independent can be reached at [email protected].

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 The New Brunswick government has heeded concerns about the significant impact of dementia, by announcing plans to invest $2 million in a provincial dementia strategy. “These funds will be used to enhance the quality of life for people living with dementia and those that care for them,” Finance Minister René Legacy said in his budget speech on March 18, 2025. 

There are about 12,000 people in New Brunswick who have dementia, a number that is expected to double by 2050. Legacy said the strategy would contribute to dementia prevention and also enable people with the brain disorder to live at home for as long as safely possible.

Six years ago, New Brunswick held public consultations on the development of a provincial dementia strategy, though one never came to fruition, leaving stakeholders disappointed.

With the latest budget announcement, there is renewed hope that New Brunswick will finally join its Atlantic counterparts in having a dementia plan. Nova Scotia launched its first dementia strategy in 2014, though its three-year action plan has expired. In Prince Edward Island, the seniors action plan includes some general steps related to dementia, but there is no detailed strategy to improve dementia care. Newfoundland & Labrador’s dementia plan ends next year.

At the national level, the federal government launched a pan-Canadian dementia strategy in 2019, though it was the last to do so among G8 countries.

In developing a comprehensive plan, the New Brunswick government will be tasked with identifying priorities and allocating funds to improve dementia care and quality of life across the province. This is no easy task, with dementia having significant social, economic, health and legal impacts, not only for people with the disorder but also for their caregivers and families.

To help guide the strategy, the government should consider human dignity as the organizing principle. Dignity means that everyone, including everyone with dementia, has intrinsic worth, simply by virtue of being human.  

While most care interactions are positive, many people with dementia receive undignified treatment, leaving them prematurely stripped of their decision-making rights, left in soiled diapers, their physical and emotional pain ignored, and their reports of abuse not believed. 

Thankfully there is the political will to invest in positive change. Last year, for example, the federal government and New Brunswick signed the Aging with Dignity bi-lateral agreement to improve standards in long-term, home and community care. This fiscal year, the province will invest over $1.5 million to continue that work. 

In the forthcoming dementia strategy, preserving dignity should be more than an aspirational goal; it should be the fundamental guiding principle behind all actions.

“Every person, regardless of age, is entitled to live in dignity, free from discrimination and abuse,” said former Supreme Court of Canada chief justice Beverley McLachlin in a speech at the 2007 annual conference on elder law in Vancouver, B.C. 

With these words in mind, let’s hope the provincial government moves quickly on a strategy that takes meaningful steps to ensure dignified lives for all New Brunswickers with dementia.

Heather Campbell Pope

Heather Campbell Pope is founder of Dementia Justice Canada, a small nonprofit dedicated to safeguarding the rights and dignity of people with dementia. She lives in St. Stephen, N.B.

Jody Bourgoin said he tried to warn staff about diesel in the coffee shop's water back in October, more than two months before the Tim Hortons on Beardsley Road was closed due to a significant diesel leak from Murray's Irving gas station next door. 

A controversial proposal to allow most homes in Fredericton to be split up into four separate units in an effort to boost the housing supply likely won't move the needle much, say experts.

Tickets to annual fundraiser on sale now

One lucky winner will be $10,000 richer after the Rotary Club of Perth-Andover’s annual cash draw, but everyone in Southern Victoria will benefit from the club’s fundraising activities.

Tickets are now available for the May 14 event. The draw will award $16,000 to lucky ticket holders throughout the evening. The annual cash draw, which will be held at the Perth-Andover Elks Lodge and on the club’s Facebook Live page starting at 7 p.m., is limited to 500 tickets.

Club members Marianne Bell and Cheryl Reed chair this year’s cash draw committee. Bell said club members are eager to sell all 500 tickets to give back to the community.

“Perth-Andover Rotarians depend on the cash draw, and our successful weekly Rotary Bingo fundraisers, to help support our community,” Bell said. “There’s lots of worthy community projects that need assistance. We give the money back into schools, Making a Difference Food Bank and community needs.”

“Proceeds from this year’s cash draw will also help with the ongoing improvements at the Perth-Andover Rotary Park,” Reed said. “Last year we completed the new washroom building. This spring will see the installation of several new log benches and swings. We hope people and groups get out to enjoy our beautiful pavilion and park.”

The cash draw is a reverse raffle, with the last ticket left in the barrel declared the $10,000 winner. Other tickets drawn throughout the evening are eligible for prizes from $100 to $1,000.

In addition to the May 14 draw, ‘early bird’ ticket holders are also eligible for three $1,000 ‘early bird’ prizes drawn May 5 at noon.

Tickets cost $60 and are available from Perth-Andover Rotary members. Residents can message the Perth-Andover Facebook account for more information on ticket purchases or email [email protected]

The post Rotary cash draw proceeds will help food bank, students, and community in 2025 first appeared on River Valley Sun.

A lawyer with the federal Department of Justice originally wanted to keep the testimony of a Crown witness in a New Brunswick murder trial a secret, but backed down following opposition from defence counsel, and news media.

As Nova Scotia tries to lift its moratorium on fracking, it's unlikely New Brunswick will follow suit.

Some Saint John residents may have noticed a huge ship in the harbour this week. The Santa Rosa, roughly the length of three football fields, was the largest container ship ever to dock in the port.

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Editor’s note: The reporter covering this court proceeding became involved by objecting to an exclusion application. As such, this article cites statements made in court by the journalist who wrote this report.

The federal Crown applied to have a witness testify in secret in a trial about a 2022 murder in Chipman, but it abandoned that request after negotiations with the defence Wednesday.

Joshua John McIsaac, 35, formerly of Penniac, and Erica Lea Ann Blyth, 42, of Newcastle Creek near Chipman, were brought to the Burton Courthouse in custody Wednesday for a pre-trial application ahead of their jury trial on a charge of first-degree murder.

They’re jointly accused of killing Brandon Patrick Donelan, 27, in the Chipman area, on Jan. 28, 2022, and their trial is scheduled to begin April 23.

The Attorney General of Canada, on behalf of the RCMP, filed an application with the Court of King’s Bench in Fredericton on March 11 seeking an exclusion order under Section 486 of the Criminal Code of Canada with regard to a specific witness.

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Premier Susan Holt is promising a major public consultation on the future of N.B. Power, including meetings that will be held around the province to hear ideas from New Brunswickers about the troubled Crown utility.

It is great to have The Courier back.

The Saint Croix Courier was a central part of my life in my childhood years and early adulthood. Since then, it was something that I happily took for granted in the 40-plus years since I left my childhood home in St. George – until it dwindled and then wasn’t around anymore.

As I child, I have vivid memories of my maternal grandmother Della Maxwell lovingly rolling and packaging past issues of the then-once-weekly paper to mail to her daughters who lived with their husbands and families in Ontario. I also have vivid memories of what made The Courier so vital and real.

It was the one place to get breakdowns of local news – the local perspective on provincial and national issues and the vibrant local communities of a couple of generations ago when few travelled from town to go to work and most spent the majority of their hours living, shopping, playing, learning, and being together in the same place. 

As a child, a visit to “the city” (Saint John), “the capitol”, or “the states” (Calais) was not routine. We learned about community events from The Courier. It was also the place where you got all the local “news” of social activities in columns like the Woodland News (penned by the legendary Grace Ober). 

The column that was most directly linked to my childhood experience was the St. George Shorts. That column was written by Helen Rubin, an energetic septuagenarian who stopped at nothing to get the news. She even brought a pad of paper to the Communion rail at St. Mark’s Anglican Church to get a scoop from members of the choir as she entered the chancel before arriving at the Communion rail. (I do not make this up.) As teenagers who witnessed all of this, a group of us silently dubbed her “Scoop” and some witty adults renamed the column Helen’s Dirty Shorts.

Here is an entry from the late 1960s:

Wilfred Langmaid of Canal entertained 10 of his school friends recently, the occasion being his seventh birthday. The children were accompanied by Wilfred’s father. Following the movie, the children gathered at the Langmaid home for a birthday supper.

From a couple of years later:

Mr. & Mrs. W.R. Langmaid and son Wilfred, accompanied by Mrs. Leroy Maxwell of Canal, have returned home after a motor trip through the Cabot Trail and the Annapolis Valley. While on their trip they also visited Mr. Langmaid’s aunt, Miss Corona Nelson of Truro, NS, as well as the Alexander Graham Bell Museum at Beddeck and Fort Beausejour National Historic Park at Aulac.

My personal involvement with The Courier team began in 1976, when high school English teachers and sports coaches encouraged me to try my hand at writing local sports news for Eastern Charlotte Regional High, which morphed in to the then brand-spanking new

Fundy High School in 1977. I also covered other local sports events, as well as one sad scoop – assigned to me by the editor Phil Johnson since full-time staff members were living in St. Stephen and St. Andrews – a news story on the fire that destroyed the original St. George Legion Hall in the late 1970s. The pay was scant — $25.00 per month in total – but I had an open canvas as I gave back to the school while researching and writing reports to give a public eye to local student athletes. 

When I left St. George to attend UNB, the junior high basketball coach Bruce Eagles wrote a very kind letter to the editor which included these words:

(Wilfred’s) reporting has been a great benefit to all the sports programs, especially at the school age level. He has provided the athletes of these programs a chance to be recognized by their family, friends, and communities. On numerous occasions, I have seen athletes run out on Wednesday to buy a Courier so they could be placed on the bulletin board.

The tabula rasa I always enjoyed at The Courier with Phil Johnson and his successor Julian Walker led to the beginning of a music review column in 1978 (called On The Record) and an opinion page op-ed column in 1979 (dubbed Impressions). In hindsight, neither were that great at the time, but I now had a venue for writing, a reason to hone my skills, and eventually the moxie to bring some tear sheets of record reviews with me to the Fredericton daily paper.

My time at The Saint Croix Courier led to a 37-year run as a freelancer for The Daily Gleaner in Fredericton, writing music columns for all of these years and penning an opinion page column for over a decade. I became, dare I say, a very effective music journalist with a unique voice, and an opinion page columnist who had a blog before there were blogs.

Meanwhile, I always read The Courier over the years, whether it was home visiting my parents in St. George, as a graduate student in Toronto visiting my paternal aunt, a faithful subscriber who had moved to Toronto in the late 1940s, or having a break at The Harriet Irving

Library at UNB over these past two decades. I am thrilled as can be that The Courier is back.

Why? The reason is simple. There is a real place for home-town journalism exploring local interests – in fact, a huge void – and there are people still hungry for a touch of home – even if it comes in the form of dirty shorts.

Long may you run, The Saint Croix Courier.

Wilfred Langmaid is Student Advocate in Student Affairs and Services at the University of New Brunswick and Lecturer in Biology at St. Thomas University. He was a freelance journalist for The Daily Gleaner for 37 years and for The Courier for 11 years.

The snow has been falling for several hours now on Pennfield Ridge blanketing the large expansive blueberry barrens that once bore witness to an active World War II Air Station. The snow, for the second time this year, is also cascading down upon on the so-called “RCAF Station Pennfield Ridge 100” memorial project. I say so-called as the project has gone through 4-5-6 variations in its name in a relative short period of time.

The wind, as it has done for over eighty years now, rumbles across Pennfield Ridge as once did the Canadian Pacific Railway train, the Blueberry Special. However, these days the wind no longer carries the haunting sound of a lonesome train whistle but more poignantly transports the forgotten voices of those who served/trained upon this hallow piece of ground.

The ticking cadence of history’s clock, albeit brief, contains a long overdue promise, especially to the “Forgotten Heroes”, to have their respective names immortalized in stone. The said voices rejoiced euphorically at this renewed promise much like they did in 1945 when V-J Day was announced at “the Ridge”.  On 15-August-1945 a dance was held in the N.C.O. Mess along with a beautiful display of pyrotechnics in the evening to celebrate this joyous occasion. 

Sadly, however, the elation pertaining to the said renewed promise was very short lived as numerous mistakes, errors and omissions quickly began to appear right out of the gate that was once located on Barker Street (named after the most decorated Canadian of WWI William George Barker, VC, DSO & Bar, MC & Two Bars). The voices, emoting twinges of sadness, cried out for anyone to assist in correcting the inaccuracies before they were set forever in stone, especially pertaining to the Royal Air Force’s vast contributions to the histories of Yarmouth & Pennfield Ridge. Those who stepped forward to assist were laughed at, ridiculed as untrained military historians and were belittled at every turn.

Review by Pennfield Parish Military Historical Society, 07-June-2024.

As a long-time supporter once remarked: “People can make mistakes, fine, but when presented with facts, I certainly believe in accuracy.”. Accuracy took a back seat in this case for expedience in meeting deadlines. True history was swept under the carpet in the honest belief that only family members of the “Forgotten Heroes” and real historians would know the difference.

Here is hoping spring brings a renewed sense to the long-forgotten promise, but perhaps the assurance is forever buried in depths of winter, simply a forgotten relic forgotten in the passage of time. 

Christian Larsen currently serves as President of Pennfield Parish Military Historical Society.  He has been actively involved in researching the genealogical & military history of Pennfield Parish for nearly four decades.  From 2009 until 2017 he hosted the annual Pennfield Ridge War Memorial Services.  Recognized at the provincial & federal levels for his work with Veterans having been awarded the Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Medal (2012); Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee Medal (2023); Minister of Veteran Affairs Commendation (2024) & King Charles III’s Coronation Medal (2025).  He can be reached at: [email protected]

Employment scams: “Trust, but verify.” – Ronald Regan

As we are all aware, prices in Canada are rising. Statistics show that in 2023, over 1.1 million working Canadians held down more than one job. For some, it is a choice, but for many, it is the only option if they want to pay their bills. A second job might look like teaching music lessons in the evenings or working 18-hour days in two jobs. These long days take a toll on us both mentally and physically.

Many jobs are found through online ads and job sites such as Monster, Workopolis, and Indeed. An added stress in people’s search for extra work is the number of scammers posting jobs. Even reputable job boards are bombarded with ads that look like actual companies, regardless of how actively they monitor and filter the new job postings. Impostors will pose as a company or an affiliate. They may present themselves as a hiring agency that offers information that can help you optimize your chances of getting a good job. They often try to get money by charging you fees, banking, and personal information.

Employment scams rose during the pandemic. Many employers were moving to remote hiring, and fake job recruiters began posting online on social media and paid platforms. They created fake social media pages and LinkedIn profiles. Regardless of how platforms analyzed these scams, many still passed through. Always check the posting history of the page that you are viewing and the number of hits or followers. Many create fake websites and make them look very professional.

Things to look for:

• Upfront fees and purchases: You should never be asked to pay for a job. If someone wants to hire you immediately and requests money, it’s a scam. Reputable employers will not request your banking information before your hire.
• If a potential employer sends you a cheque, and you are asked to deposit it to your account and return a portion of the money through a money-transfer service, it is a scam. They may disguise this as a sign-on bonus. Cryptocurrency may be deposited into an account, but you will not have the ability to withdraw the funds. Do not be a money mule contributing to the illicit business of money laundering.
• Equipment purchases — A legitimate company may ask you to provide equipment for a remote position, such as a laptop. However, no one should ask you to pay directly to purchase equipment for you to use.
• Urgent hires: Although there are times when companies need employees, they will not hire you without asking questions, requesting credentials and interviewing you.

Please do your research. Verify company information by checking their official website. Use their contact information to verify that the job offer is legitimate. Protect your personal and banking information. We face challenging times and work too hard for scammers to add to our hardship. Stay safe.

The post COLUMN: Scams: Don’t take the bait! first appeared on River Valley Sun.

The mayors of Saint Andrews, St. Stephen and the Village of McAdam are writing to the federal government hoping to learn why they were left out of the Canada's Housing Accelerator Fund — again.

Bell Aliant says residents of Newcastle, Woodstock and Grand Falls may not have TV and internet service due to a cable theft in Fredericton.

A Rothesay family sometimes has to split themselves in half to cheer on their kids — all three play hockey on different teams.

Saint John is already expected to be Canada's hardest-hit city in the forthcoming trade war — in large part because of the oil industry's immense cross-border market.

As we are all well aware now Mr. Trump has had an idea, he thinks that Canada should become America’s Cherished 51^st State.  Leaving aside for a moment the physical reaction to lose my lunch, let’s look at this cold and dispassionately.  Mr. Trump is suggesting a hostile takeover using economic force, and increasingly belligerent talk of annexation, this is not a coming together of willing partners.  Do we need to join a block to protect ourselves better?

Think about it if we were to join the US, we would be a junior partner that would be consumed by the US.  Our Healthcare, Language, culture and Education… out very identity would be under assault from day one.  We would have to accept their insane banking, gun laws, environmental laws, and crazy election system, just to name a few.  We would also affect them, adding a progressive population to their union would drag them significantly to the left especially if we add 9 – 13 states, not just one big one.  Our conservatives may seem pretty right wing at times but in the USA they would be Centrist Democrats.

On the other hand, by joining the EU we would be joining with a lot to offer and receive.  We would also be joining as more of a senior player in the block.  Canada would be the largest by land mass, we would be the 5^th largest in population and we would be tied for third with Italy in GDP.  Canada is a largely like-minded country to most of Europe, we have similar standards, institutions and ideals and we would add to the diversity of the EU and not have to give up our identity to join.  Canada would provide a strong economy, manufacturing and resource sector.  Canada would also offer significant critical minerals, natural resources and energy to the EU, and in saner times we would also be a bridge between Europe and the USA.  Canada would gain a massive new market that is far larger than the USA, that is more cooperative than any deals we have had with the USA.  This would be the kick in the backside Canada needs to get out of its complacency and grow as a people.  Also our healthcare, education, social services and language would be strengthened in the European union model and not put under threat by American intollerance.

This would not mean abandoning US trade entirely, we live right next to them it is unlikely to simply disappear, it would however give us many more options.

Ron Fischer

Fischer is a Facility Manager that lives in Moncton NB, has been in the Canadian Navy AB (ret) as an Oceanographic Operator, and has participated in the political process as the President of a Barrie-Innisfil EDA in days gone by.

Tourists have been quickly booking spots in New Brunswick for this summer, generating talk of a banner year as many Canadians vow to vacation closer to home.

Roberta MacKenzie, of Gagetown, N.B., and Pat Cunningham of Perth, Scotland, started sending letters to each other in the early 1950s.

When it comes to NB Power increases, what can we do? Sadly, not much.

I know I am not alone in my total anger and frustration with such a drastic increase in costs from NB Power, as that is all I hear people talk about in lineups at the grocery, lineups at the bank, and at my place of work. 

Well, thank you so very much, NB Power, for the 10 per cent rebate announcement in your latest letters to your NB Power users, which included proud exclamation marks to emphasize your wonderful gift to NB residents. (EDITOR’S NOTE: This discount was a provincial government initiative.) This was just prior to an outrageous 9.7% increase in April, which surprisingly arrived early in my January bill! How are you allowed to do that? 

Citizens of New Brunswick and all over Canada, for that matter, are already taking a beating with mortgage rate increases, gas gouges and food price explosions. Where will it end?

Looking to the future, if this does not stop soon, I predict an increase in suicides, mental health issues and crimes of theft as people become more desperate to make ends meet. Purchasing only necessities, taking shorter showers, lowering washer and dryer usage, keeping lights off, setting thermostats low, and driving as little as possible. I don’t know what else we can do. I already live low, but I am really feeling the struggle. I feel and fear for the single-income families and how they will cope. Where is the extra money for all these hikes supposed to come from? It’s not equalling out as wages are not keeping up with the drastic financial demands on necessities. 

Along with big oil and big banks, NB Power has joined the greedy and is gouging the essentials we need to house and feed ourselves, stay warm and keep calm. Our hands appear to be tied, and all we can do is accept it.

What does the future look like for low-income earners, getting a second job perhaps, forfeiting time with beloved family, friends and pets? Maybe win the lotto; oh, no, the $1 ticket is long gone! The minimum wage may increase to $30 an hour, or maybe NB Power is hiring?  

The state of Canada’s direction so saddens me; it appears we are falling apart. Government, step up and protect our livelihood! We are counting on you for guidance to stop this madness.

Sincerely, 

Deeply concerned New Brunswicker and Canadian citizen

R. Faber
Woodstock, N.B.

The post LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Total frustration with power bill increases first appeared on River Valley Sun.

An end of the fiscal year breakdown at the Point Lepreau nuclear generating station is worsening what may turn out to the poorest operational year on record for the 42-year-old plant.

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A Fredericton man arrested Thursday night after a violent incident uptown that sent a man to hospital was belligerent in court Friday as he was charged with aggravated assault.

Colin Jaffar Rogers, 28, of Westbrook Lane, initially appeared in Fredericton provincial court by telephone from the city police station cellblock Friday afternoon.

Fredericton police officers arrested Rogers at Canadian Tire on Smythe Street on Thursday night.

The police force charged him Friday with committing an aggravated assault on Joseph Gaudin by wounding him and/or endangering his life, assaulting Const. Deana Joka and resisting Const. Matt MacMellan, all stemming from Thursday night’s events.

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By Brian Owens, The Courier

Duty-free shops and other businesses that rely on cross-border traffic are “facing literal demise” and desperately need financial support from the federal government to help them weather the effects of tariffs and a dramatic drop in travel to the United States, according to the Frontier Duty Free Association and Border Mayors Alliance.

“Border community businesses that depend on cross-border traffic like Duty-Free stores, which are 100% reliant on Canadians crossing into the United States, are at a breaking point,” said Barbara Barret, executive director of the Frontier Duty Free Association in a press conference on Mar. 21. “We are calling on the federal government to step up now with targeted financial support and a plan that recognizes the unique vulnerabilities of border-dependent communities and the businesses that keep them alive.”

Cross-border trips have dropped dramatically in recent months, due to the continued threat of tariffs and President Donald Trump’s comments about Canada becoming the 51st state. In February, the number of Canadians returning to Canada via the two crossings in St. Stephen fell by 24 per cent compared with Feb. 2024.

This blow comes as businesses such as duty-free shops in border communities are still struggling to recover from the 20-month-long border closure during the COVID-19 pandemic, Barrett explained.

St. Stephen Mayor Allan MacEachern told the press conference that communities all along the border had “suffered greatly” through the pandemic and “we still haven’t got our feet under us from that”.

“When people and products don’t cross our borders it’s a huge impact to our communities,” he said. “We need to know that our government’s got our backs.”

The federal government, and the government of New Brusnwick have said that money will be available to help support businesses affected by tariffs.

Trina Jones, mayor of Woodstock, N.B., said that since businesses like duty-free qualified for support during the pandemic, there is no reason they should not be included now.

“I hope the government learned things from the pandemic, and remembers them today,” she said.

Cam Bissonnette, who owns two duty-free shops in British Columbia, struggled to fight back tears as he told the press conference how he is not sure whether he will be able to keep his business afloat.

“It feels like we’re hostages in economic warfare,” he said. “We’re not looking for a lot of money, we just want to stay solvent and pay our staff.”

Border mayors from across Canada say they're on the front line of the tariff war with the United States and are disproportionately suffering as a result. 

The New Brunswick government is ending a two-year fight with CUPE and repealing legislation that would have forced five unions into a shared-risk pension plan. 

Julmac Contracting Ltd. is seeking an injunction that would allow employees to return to work on three bridge projects they were removed from by the province.

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The provincial coroner’s office says it’s holding an inquest next month into the 2023 death of a man it says was in police custody at the time, but it turns out he was under the control of provincial peace officers.

The New Brunswick coroner’s office announced Friday that an inquest will be held April 23 to 25 at the Wu Conference Centre on the University of New Brunswick campus in Fredericton.

The subject of the inquest is the death of Lonnie Dellas Carr, 59, in the spring of 2023.

“Carr died in police custody in Fredericton on April 9, 2023, due to combined drug toxicity,” a government news release said.

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Charles ‘Charlie’ Coffey takes home $25 million

Charlie Coffey is used to dealing with money. The Carleton County native built his career in the banking industry. He now lives in Toronto, Ontario, where he purchased the winning ticket for the Jan. 31 draw and took home $25 million.

The 81-year-old officer of the Order of Canada grew up in Woodstock, New Brunswick, the seventh of nine children. He picked up the ticket when he got gas and a treat at a local service station.

“When I checked my tickets on the self-scanner, one wasn’t a winner, but the other was. I thought I saw $25,000 and said to myself, ‘That’s interesting,’” Coffey explained during an interview when he picked up his winnings. “But I didn’t have my glasses on, so I got them out, went back to check what I thought was a $25,000 ticket, and saw $25 million.”

Throughout his career, Coffey advocated for causes in Toronto and across Canada, supporting Indigenous communities, early childhood development, women entrepreneurs, women in public office, education, and diversity.

Coffey was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2003 and was named an Honorary Chief by the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs to recognize his support for First Nations. He also received the Canadian Women’s International Business Initiative Award from the Canadian Embassy in the U.S.

“This win gives me the opportunity to sustainably support the causes I have championed for decades,” he said.

“I believe in the premise of a hand-up versus a handout and want to support organizations that need a stronger voice. The motto for the Order of Canada is ‘They desire a better country,’ and that speaks to me. A desire for a better Toronto, a better Ontario, and a better Canada, in particular for our Indigenous peoples.”

Coffey said he’s “overwhelmed, humbled, and filled with gratitude by this massive lottery windfall.”

“I’m excited to plan a wonderful family holiday so that we can celebrate and make more precious memories together.”

The post Former Woodstock native wins big with Lotto Max first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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Warning: This story contains profanity.

A homeless man with a history of courtroom outbursts spat on his defence lawyer just before a court appearance Friday and challenged him to “a duel in the street.”

A sentencing hearing for Joshua Daniel Grant Burden, 50, of no fixed address, was scheduled for continuation in Fredericton provincial court Friday on charges including arson, threats and probation violation.

Burden had pleaded guilty earlier this year to the charges, including causing damage by fire to MacTavish’s Source for Sports on Queen Street while being reckless as to whether the building was occupied at the time.

However, during the initial part of his sentencing hearing weeks ago, he denied setting that fire and claimed he only admitted to it because police coerced him and he wanted to be done with the matters.

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Information on the upcoming AGM and a profile of VP Margie McGuire

By Greater Woodstock Chamber of Commerce members

Happening Now

Well, it’s that time of year when we have been planning our AGM. I know that makes you want to skip reading the rest of this. An AGM is boring!

We hope to change that boring stereotype and that you’ll join us this year. Of course, we have some business to take care of, but we will keep that quick. 

Are you new to town and want an opportunity to meet other business professionals? Would you like to promote your new or existing business? Have you lived in town forever and have no idea what the chamber does? Would you like to provide group health benefits to your employees or your family? 

There are many reasons to join the chamber. One reason many members cite is having access to a comprehensive health plan. I will highlight quickly that even if you are a ‘one-person show,’ you can become a member and get member health benefits. You get the savings of being part of a group health plan even if you are a solo entrepreneur. Spread the word! 

Want more details? Chamberlain Wealth Management will present at the AGM and help us all understand the benefits of a Chamber group health plan. They also bring refreshments, so you are welcome to come just for the snacks!

Join us for our AGM. We are open to members who are curious-minded.

March 26, 6 pm at NBCC

• light refreshments
• Network and meet other businesses
• Tour NBCC and hear about member benefits

You do not have to be a member to attend. Come for information, snacks, or to meet board members.

Chamber Highlights

We have some introductions for 2025! A big welcome to our new board members – Karen Lawrence of Soul Healing Space, Melody Dickinson of Woodstock Sanctuary House and our new Executive Director Josh Laverty of FPS Media. PSSst, we still have room for you to join the board. Our new recruits jumped in for the February meeting, and some exciting things are on the horizon.

Meet our Vice President, Margie McGuire, owner of Fashion Today on King Street in Downtown Woodstock. Margie has a passion for revitalizing our downtown. She is proud to have been part of the Night Market initiative and how market planning really brought the board together. 

Margie has been a long-standing Chamber member, winning both Business of the Year and Women in Business Entrepreneur of the Year. We are grateful for her expertise on the board.

Website- www.gwcc.ca

Facebook- greater Woodstock chamber of commerce

Email – [email protected]

The post COLUMN: Greater Woodstock Chamber News & Views first appeared on River Valley Sun.

The courthouse in Saint Andrews has agreed in principle to hand the courthouse over to a non-profit organization. 

It has been a source of discussion for the municipal council given the property needs significant work, including removing the lead paint from the exterior of the building which could cost up to $300,000, and a new roof. 

“There’s actually not a purpose for the municipality directly, but there is a group that would like to turn it into a community hub that thinks that they’ll be very successful getting grants,” said Saint Andrews Mayor Brad Henderson. “So, the municipality is open to transferring it to a not-for-profit or charity.”

Last month, the Saint Andrews Civic Trust gave an hour-long presentation about what it would like to do with the courthouse, including adding community space and revitalizing the green space in front of the building. 

However, the council has asked for expressions of interest on the property – to ensure transparency and fairness to any organization that might wish to take over the property. 

The expression of interest is simply to gauge how many organizations may be interested outside the SACT and it takes less time, but if the council receives multiple expressions, it could then move to RFP. 

Those are formal proposals with costing estimates and plans, afterward, the council could select whichever it prefers. 

“You can expect covenants from the municipality to make sure that that building is protected for the municipality and for the history of the building,” Henderson said. 

There were questions from the council ahead of showing interest in handing the courthouse over. 

Coun. Darrell Weare asked whether the town would need to provide financial support to the organization that takes over the building. 

Property taxes, according to the council, is the most significant thing it faces when it comes to financing the courthouse. 

Henderson said he believes some sort of short-term financial support would likely be required, but time limits would like to be imposed on those. 

“My short answer to that would be probably,” he said. “I think you’d limit it to a period of time and it is also a heritage and tourism asset, I think it is something you would consider using the tourism accommodation levy for a period of time.” 

The level of financial support could include a question in the eventual RFP, if there is one, and be subject to grading by the council. 

Coun. Kurt Gumashel reiterated feelings he’d expressed at a previous council meeting about returning the courthouse to the provincial government. 

Five years ago, the property was handed over, and the town received financial support to assist them in the costs associated with the building, but that funding has expired. 

“I’m stuck on the fact, we took this courthouse in good faith, with the understanding that it was in good shape and it was a sound building and I don’t think that is what we got,” he said. “I wonder if a fifth option is we simply lock the doors and say the Province of New Brunswick, here is your courthouse back and let them figure it out.” 

Henderson said given the town has owned it for five years, it is unlikely the province would take it back. 

No date has been set yet for council to discuss next steps on the future of the Saint Andrews Courthouse.

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A Fredericton woman is headed to trial next year on an allegation she shared intimate images of another person without consent.

Samantha Mary Basque, 22 - who resides in the capital but hails from Chamberlain Settlement near Bathurst - appeared in Fredericton provincial court Thursday with defence counsel Wanda Severns.

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Julmac Contracting Ltd. is hoping a judge will grant an injunction that allows it to return to work on three bridge projects the New Brunswick government removed it from last month.

Another family seeking school bus accommodations for a child with diabetes is not getting the answers they hoped for from district officials.

Woodstock’s Creek Village Gallery & Café turns 10, celebrates milestone with April 1 event

By Paul Twyford

A decade ago, a vision for a community-focused art space took root in Woodstock. Today, Creek Village Gallery & Café celebrates its 10th anniversary, reflecting on its journey, challenges, and the unwavering support of local artists and the community.

The story began when the O’Toole Gallery artists & Celtic Fox Coffee House, originally in Grafton at Kerry O’Toole’s, needed a new home. Determined to sustain a space for local artists, Suzan Carsley, Donna Smallenberg, and Paul Twyford searched for the perfect location. They found it in the former Pizza Delight building on Connell Street, which is full of potential but needs significant renovations.

Meanwhile, Carol and Amanda Trizna sought to establish a café. The two groups connected and formed a partnership, thanks to Darren Johnson’s suggestion. Together, they envisioned a space that combined an art gallery with a welcoming café, leading to the birth of Creek Village Gallery & Café. Former O’Toole Gallery artists were invited to join this exciting venture.

Renovations required months of hard work, financial assistance from BIA, and recruiting new artists. Finally, on April 1, 2015, Creek Village Gallery & Café officially opened.

From the start, Creek Village Gallery has been a nonprofit cooperative, offering local artists and artisans a space to showcase and sell their work. With an initial roster of 32 artists, the gallery has maintained a strong presence in the community, prioritizing local talent and fostering creativity. Today, 35 artists contribute their work, ensuring a dynamic, ever-changing display.

Creek Village Gallery’s success is driven by its cooperative members. Artists volunteer as directors, cashiers, and bookkeepers and handle advertising, maintenance, and event planning. This collective effort keeps the gallery thriving. A highlight of its mission is the Young Artists Spotlight, sponsored by Greg MacPherson, which provides emerging artists with exposure and experience.

The café has also played a vital role in Creek Village’s identity. Committed to a “farm to table” approach, it supports local farmers and sustainable agriculture. All food is made on-site, including its popular homemade bread. The eatery also offers organic, fair-trade coffee and specialty espresso drinks while providing a cozy space for visitors to enjoy fresh, locally sourced meals. Catering services and take-out options further expand its reach.

To celebrate its 10th anniversary, Creek Village Gallery & Café will host a special event on Tuesday, April 1, 2025. The festivities will feature anniversary cookies, cupcakes, and a signature “Anniversary Latte” at the café. Guests can enjoy live music, enter prize draws featuring artwork from gallery artists, and see a new featured artist display unveiling.

As Creek Village marks this milestone, it extends heartfelt gratitude to the community for its unwavering support. The gallery and café have thrived thanks to the passion of its artists and the patronage of art lovers who believe in the power of local creativity.

Here’s to the next decade of art, culture, and community in Woodstock!

The post A decade of art and community first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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One person was taken to hospital after a report of an incident involving “an edged weapon” Thursday night, the Fredericton Police Force reports, and officers arrested a male suspect.

The city police force issued an advisory on social media Thursday night about a violent incident.

“On Thursday, March 20,, at approximately [8 p.m.], the Fredericton Police Force responded to a call for service on Fredericton's south side for a report of an individual armed with an edged weapon,” the force posted on social media at 10:35 p.m.

“One male is currently in custody. An individual has been transported to the [Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital] with non-life-threatening injuries.”

The force didn’t indicate the ages of the suspect or injured party, or in what specific location the incident occurred.

It said officers remained at the scene as the investigation continues.

“There is no risk to public safety at this time,” the advisory said.

There was no indication if the suspect would face charges, what the nature of those charges might be or if the detained individual would make a court appearance in custody Friday.

The Fredericton Independent can be reached at [email protected].

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A Burton man scheduled to go through a bail hearing Thursday asked a court instead to postpone the proceeding so he could better prepare a proposal for his release.

Brady Matthew Worden, 30, of Route 102, appeared in Fredericton provincial court by video conference Thursday from a custodial facility, scheduled for a show-cause hearing - more commonly known as a bail hearing.

He faces two sets of charges, both laid by the New Brunswick RCMP’s internet child exploitation unit.

The first file alleges he possessed child pornography in Fredericton and breached an October 2016 court order prohibiting him from accessing the internet, both between June 24 and Sept. 24; and that he transmitted child porn Sept. 6, all in Fredericton.

He was free on conditions on those charges until late last week, when he was detained on new charges.

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Connell House event in Woodstock celebrates Black History Month

By Tanika Chambers

The Legacy Art Exhibit in Celebration of Black History Month was a resounding success, attracting nearly 200 students from Townsview School, their teachers, and other community members. Tanika Chambers, program director of the non-profit G.H.A.M.P. Inc. (Giving Hope & Minding People), and her husband, Robert Chambers, organized the event. 

They wanted to fill a gap in their community by hosting a meaningful event that was easily accessible and not an hour away. The idea was sparked when Tanika took her daughter to a Black History Month exhibit in Fredericton, an hour away, the previous year.

The Woodstock exhibit showcased 16 pieces of work by Toronto artist Robert Small. Small is a self-taught visual artist who revolutionized the celebration of Black History Month in Canada through his Legacy poster campaign. A description accompanied each piece, educating attendees about the accomplishments of the individuals depicted.

The event attracted the attention of Mayor Trina Jones and Councillor Christa McCartney, who came by to view and support this first-time event in Carleton County, as well as Girl Guider Leaders Karen (Kippy) Taylor and Naomi Sharpe and their 2nd Woodstock Girl Guide Unit. Taylor thanked the Chambers for a lovely and informative evening.

The feedback from people who attended was overwhelmingly positive. One teacher from Townsview School expressed her gratitude for the opportunity, noting that her class had an amazing time at the exhibit and that every student learned something different. 

Overall, the Legacy Art Exhibit in Celebration of Black History Month was a successful event that celebrated Black History Month and provided an educational and memorable experience that many look forward to attending next year.

“It was my pleasure organizing such an educational event for the community,” said Tanika Chambers. “I also learned in the process. Next year we hope to offer even more.”

Proceeds from this event went towards running GHAMP Inc.’s weekly girls program, E.X.H.A.L.E Girls Club. This program supports visible minorities, but girls of all nationalities are welcome. It focuses on building confidence, self-esteem, life skills, and positive contributions to the community.

GHAMP has a Facebook page and a website if anyone wants to follow or learn how you can help support Tanika’s work with girls. Visit www.ghamp.org

The post Legacy Art Exhibit features black artist Robert Small first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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A Minto man accused of possessing child pornography is expected to enter a plea to the charge in a couple of weeks’ time after court heard Tuesday he now has a defence lawyer.

Tommie McGinley, 33, of Bridge Street, appeared in Fredericton provincial court Tuesday to answer to a summary count of possessing child pornography, alleged to have occurred May 22 in Minto.

Judge Pierre Gionet noted the case had previously been adjourned to give the accused time to apply for legal aid.

Duty counsel Josh Pozzolo said that application was approved, and legal-aid staff lawyer Edward Derrah had since been assigned as his counsel.

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The Holt government introduced new legislation Wednesday that would cancel a travel nurse contract with Canadian Health Labs. The contract was signed by Vitalité in 2022 as the health-care system faced dire staffing shortages.

The day after New Brunswick’s Liberal government tabled a budget with a $549 million deficit, the Opposition Progressive Conservatives had virtually nothing to say about it.

Southwest New Brunswick MP John Williamson is running again in the next federal election for the Conservatives. 

“I will work hard to continue serving you so our voice is heard in Parliament. Our riding is growing by approximately 12,000 people and will include families in Geary, Burton & Saint John West,” he said in a post via social media. 

Williamson was first elected – in the riding now renamed Saint John-Saint Croix – in 2011 but was defeated by current Liberal candidate Karen Ludwig. He was re-elected again in 2019. 

“My local team is ready for the election, whenever it is called, and Conservatives are fighting to offer Canadians a smart alternative to the Liberals,” he said in his post. 

The Conservatives are hoping to defeat the Liberals, who’ve held government for the past 10 years. 

Both Williamson and Conservative Leader Pierre Pollievre have taken aim at the Liberal’s record – especially on the carbon tax – which was recently eliminated by now Liberal leader and Prime Minister Mark Carney. 

The riding of New Brunswick Southwest has generally leaned Conservative since 1997 but has a history of flipping between the two parties. 

“As your local Conservative candidate and MP, I have been fighting for southern New Brunswick,” he said in the post. 

Liberal candidate Karen Ludwig welcomed him into the race. 

“I welcome John Williamson to the race, and I remain focused on delivering real solutions that put our region first,” she said. 

Ludwig said the riding’s economy will need strong leadership that protects local jobs and industries. 

“This riding is home to hardworking people whose livelihoods depend on strong economic policies, not political rhetoric,” she said in a statement. 

It remains unclear when a federal election could be called, but is legislated to happen in October.

Two of the victims sexually assaulted by a former teacher when they were children stood in a Moncton courtroom Wednesday to describe how their lives have been changed by his actions.

New Brunswick’s Liberal government is projecting a $549-million deficit in its first budget.

That is despite a campaign promise by Premier Susan Holt to balance the budget in every year of her term.

Finance Minister René Legacy said his government had to make some “tough decisions” as it built this budget.

“We will not sacrifice fixing health and education, and addressing the very real affordability challenges New Brunswickers are facing or shirk our responsibility to tackle the impacts of tariffs head-on in favour of satisfying the bottom line,” Legacy said in his budget speech.

“We were elected to address the challenges that New Brunswickers face, and we intend on meeting our commitments.”

Budget includes $14.3B in spending

The province plans to spend $14.3 billion in the upcoming fiscal year, while revenue is only projected at $13.8 billion.

Legacy said the budget includes $112 million in new spending for its previously-announced tariff response plan. A $50-million contingency is also being introduced to reflect the uncertainty of tariffs.

The Holt government plans to spend around $4.1 billion on health care during the upcoming year, an increase of nearly $293 million.

It includes $30 million to support new collaborative care clinics aimed at improving access for the up to 180,000 New Brunswickers waiting for a primary care provider.

The Liberals committed to creating at least 30 local family health teams over the next four years as one of their campaign promises.

The government is also spending $28 million to improve health-care technology systems and $2 million for health-care recruitment.

More money for teachers, EAs

Legacy said his government has set aside an extra $32 million for educational assistants and behavioural intervention mentors.

There is also an additional $16 million for more teachers to help address growth in student enrolment and $4 million to boost teacher recruitment and retention.

New Brunswick will also spend $10 million to ensure children and youth living with exceptional needs and trauma receive a consistent level of high-quality support.

Legacy said they will spend $22 million on nursing homes and specialized beds to support the province’s aging population and keep waitlists from growing.

The government has also earmarked $10 million to make home care more affordable and help people stay in their homes longer, and $2 million to implement a dementia strategy and action plan.

There is also an additional $19 million for a school lunch program and $200 million over five years as part of a larger program to subsidize more than 17,000 child-care spaces.

Housing support

The Liberal government’s budget also includes an additional $36 million for the New Brunswick Housing Corporation to address significant housing challenges.

It includes an increase of $21 million for the direct-to-tenant rental benefit, supporting an additional 2,500 households per year.

There is also an additional $4.6 million for the Affordable Rental Housing Program and nearly $3.3 million in public housing to support necessary repairs and modernization and improvement projects.

Legacy said they will also spend nearly $4.7 million to help improve wrap-around services for supporting housing for those experiencing homelessness.

RELATED: Read Finance Minister René Legacy’s entire budget speech

The government has also earmarked more than $9 million for transition houses, second-stage housing, domestic violence outreach services and community-based sexual violence services.

On the topic of fiscal reform, Legacy said his government intends to introduce legislation on a fiscal reform funding model that will provide local governments a “much-needed diversification of revenues” to support sustainability and provide greater predictability.

The province will also spend $5 million in technology to help transform the province’s court system and clear backlogs.

Transformation initiative

Legacy said his government will also embark on a “transformation initiative” over the coming year to determine how they can work collaboratively with stakeholders, partners and communities to better deliver for New Brunswickers.

In the short term, they have asked departments to lead the work to identify areas where they could stop doing things that are not delivering results and to better use every dollar available, he said.

Departments have been tasked with creating plans, and a central “transformation team” will work across government to gather those plans, triage ideas and support service transformation.

“This might not be the budget we hoped for back in November, but it is one that we believe balances the needs of New Brunswickers against our fiscal realities – one that does not continue to kick our issues down the road for future generations,” said Legacy.

“We had to make some tough decisions as we built this budget, but we knew if the choice was between presenting a balanced budget or doing what was right for the people of this province, we would choose New Brunswickers and their priorities every single time.”

Official Opposition reacts to budget

The budget will be voted on in the coming weeks, but it already is lacking support from the Official Opposition.

Leader Glen Savoie said he sees “debts, deficits and broken promises” when he looks at the document.

“A budget that gives absolutely no targets, a budget that does not address affordability, a budget that doesn’t demonstrably improve access to health care. No, we can’t support that kind of a budget,” Savoie told our newsroom.

Savoie said the government spending is “unsustainable” and questions whether New Brunswickers will see any benefits from it.

“What we’re expecting is that they’re going to undo all of the work that we did to try to get us into a better financial position,” he said.

“The question has to become whether or not New Brunswickers are going to be better off for the extra money that they’re spending.”

Savoie also added that the budget does not go far enough to support the economy, especially during this time of uncertainty.

Julie Stockford takes on role vacated by Rob Webber

The town of Hartland has a new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).

Julie Stockford of Howard Brook started her new position on Feb. 18, after Rob Webber vacated it in Nov. 2024, taking a CAO position with another municipality.

The municipality noted her years of insurance and financial management experience in the upcoming Hartland newsletter.

“After an extensive search, we found the perfect fit in Julie Stockford,” said Mayor Tracey DeMerchant. “Her strong leadership skills, dedication to community, and professional experience are a tremendous asset to Hartland.”

The announcement, which will be included in the Hartland newsletter and delivered to Hartland residents’ mailboxes in early April, notes Stockford’s willingness to hit the ground running.

“Since stepping into the role, Julie has worked closely with council and municipal staff to oversee daily operations, implement policies, and engage with residents and business owners.”

The announcement also touched on Stockford’s demonstrated commitment to the town, “taking the time to familiarize herself with ongoing initiatives and working closely with council to support Hartland’s growth.”

The post Hartland appoints new CAO first appeared on River Valley Sun.